Verbs followed by ‘ing’ or by ‘to + infinitive’ (2)

When one verb is followed by another, the second verb can either be an infinitive or an –ing form. Some verbs can be followed by either an infinitive, or an –ing form but with a change in meaning. These are some of the most common ones.

like

I like watching old films on TV.

With an ‘ing’ form, ‘like’ means ‘enjoy’

I like to wash up as soon as I finish eating.

I might not enjoy washing up but I think it’s the right thing to do.

Remember that ‘would like’ can only be followed by an infinitive.

I’d like to go to Japan next year, if possible.

try

I’m trying to learn Japanese but it’s very difficult.

Try + to + infinitive means that something is difficult and you make an attempt to do it.